Vaizey urges satellite platforms to end fees for public service broadcasters

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

Paying millions of pounds to be broadcast on satellite is not ‘fair or equitable’.
Speaking at the Oxford Media Convention, Communications…

Speaking at the Oxford Media Convention, Communications Minister Ed Vaizey called on satellite platforms to end the fees they charge public service broadcasters for carrying their channels.

The BBC and other public service broadcasters currently pay millions of pounds a year to be shown by satellite platforms, while cable networks carry these channels without payment.

No rush to regulate

Mr Vaizey said: “We’re not going to rush into a regulatory solution because I believe there’s no reason the market should not be able to work out a fair, equitable solution.

“But if the industry cannot find a way to stop imposing this cost on Licence Fee payers and public service broadcasters, we will look at our options for intervention.”

Communications Review

Vaizey also talked about the broad approach the Government would be taking in the forthcoming Communications Review white paper.

The White Paper will focus on three key areas - connectivity and infrastructure, content and consumers. The regulation of the press following the publication of Lord Justice Leveson’s report is being taken forward separately.

Mr Vaizey said: “People have told us that, for the most part, our regulatory framework is working. The way forward is evolution rather than revolution.

“We need a regime that is responsive and flexible enough to regulate a fast paced environment. We need these industries to continue to innovate, to show leadership and to take responsibility.